Written questions by Madders.

What assessment he has made of the potential merits of reducing the decibel level of fireworks.

No current assessment has been made on the merits of reducing decibel levels of fireworks. However, the Government is continuing to engage with businesses, consumer groups and charities to gather evidence on the issues with and impacts of fireworks to inform any future action.The Government has also launched a public campaign on fireworks safety for the 2025-2026 fireworks season. The campaign highlights the availability of low noise fireworks and includes new guidance for those running community fireworks events and new social media posts that emphasise the risks from the misuse of fireworks.

What assessment has been made of the number of people employed in contracts without guaranteed hours who have been refused credit because of their employment.

The Government has published its Impact Assessments for the Bill. Without guaranteed hours, workers are without certainty as to their earnings, making it difficult to apply for credit or a mortgage. The new right to guaranteed hours aims to ensure that all jobs provide a baseline of security and predictability - making it easier for qualifying workers to plan their lives and finances.Consumer credit firms regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) must follow the FCA’s detailed rules on affordability checks. FCA rules mean that firms should only lend to consumers who can afford repayments and this should be based on a careful assessment of their income, spending, and financial commitments. These rules aim to prevent over-indebtedness, promote responsible lending, and ensure fair treatment of customers.

What steps he has taken to protect university workers' terms and conditions when they are transferred to a subsidiary company.

When a business changes its owner, its employees may be protected under the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations (TUPE). TUPE may also apply when a service transfers to a new provider. If TUPE applies, the employees’ jobs usually transfer over to the new company, and their employment terms and conditions transfer. The new employer cannot change an employee’s terms and conditions if the reason is the transfer itself.